Diving atFirst BAY North (Jordan)
First Bay North provides an ideal introduction to Red Sea diving in Jordan, accommodating all skill levels. Its sheltered, calm environment makes it a primary choice for PADI Open Water courses and check dives. Whether you’re a beginner exploring the underwater world for the first time or an experienced diver seeking a relaxed and vibrant reef, this accessible site offers rewarding experiences.
Evening condition tracking at First BAY North features an air temperature of 31°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Part of a larger 700-meter fringing reef system, First Bay North extends south, merging with First Bay South. Its recognition among divers stems from straightforward shore access and consistently protected conditions within the bay, establishing it as a primary location for training and relaxed exploration.
Sheltered conditions minimize strong currents and wave action, creating an ideal environment for beginners and those refining skills. From the entry point, divers typically navigate a defined channel, leading into the expansive open blue water. Here, reef structure to the left noticeably intensifies in density and diversity.
Descending, divers enter very shallow depths, typically between 2 m / 7 ft and 5 m / 16 ft, ideal for initial skill practice. From this gentle start, the site gradually slopes away, unveiling rich, varied topography.
Expansive, vibrant coral gardens in the shallows host smaller reef fish, transitioning into a wide, undulating sandy plain. Around 9 meters / 30 ft, this plain becomes interspersed with numerous coral clusters and bommies, creating intricate habitats. Throughout, a vivid, dynamic ecosystem supports diverse species against healthy reef formations.
First BAY North
Conditions are Good
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near First BAY North show 31° air, 25° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 33 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Year-round, divers can expect excellent conditions at First Bay North, establishing it as a reliable destination regardless of the season. Visibility consistently remains good, typically ranging from 15 m to 30 m, which greatly enhances the clarity for reef observation and underwater photography. Air temperatures contribute to a comfortable diving climate, averaging 18°C / 64°F in January and reaching highs of 34.5°C / 94°F in July. This range means warm surface conditions are common, though winter months might call for slightly more thermal protection. The minimal rainfall reported across all months further contributes to stable underwater conditions and uninterrupted dive schedules. The site consistently experiences calm, protected waters, with only light surge occasionally reported, primarily near the entry points. These gentle and predictable conditions are highly advantageous for underwater photography, enabling stable shots, and make the site particularly well-suited for diver training, skill development, and extended, relaxed exploration dives at any time of year.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Beginning a dive at First Bay North typically involves very shallow entry, around 2-5 m, from shore or boat. A small coral garden at 8 m greets divers, followed by a broad sandy plain at 9 m, dotted with coral clusters. From 15 m, a steeper reef slope begins, home to the most diverse and robust coral formations. A distinctive, long narrow pinnacle, notable for its red soft coral covering, protrudes from the reef at 15 meters, serving as a navigational marker. Following the reef wall north reveals expansive corals and black coral trees, reaching depths of up to 30 meters (100 feet). While light surge can occur, conditions usually remain protected.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
First Bay North generally presents a safe and calm diving environment; no inherent hazards beyond typical diving considerations are consistently reported. Divers should remain mindful of fire corals near entry points. Its rich visual distractions can easily engross divers in a particular reef section. Simplifying orientation, remember that following the reef upwards towards safety-stop depth reliably leads back to shore. For deeper exploration, navigate south from the mooring to find a cabbage coral at 18 meters. From there, divers can follow the reef wall north past black coral trees, eventually returning via a sandy gulley at 12 meters to the mooring area.
Recommended Equipment
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for First BAY North, Jordan. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Thermal protection such as 3mm wetsuit is commonly used for water temperatures in this range. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds.
Divers planning a dive at First BAY North today will likely encounter water temperatures close to 25°C (78°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 31°C (87°F).
Environmental models indicate a modest warming trend ahead. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, live updates are temporarily delayed. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to FIRST BAY NORTH.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN Europe.
+39 0642115685- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Closest Listed Hyperbaric Chambers
Showing listed hyperbaric chamber facilities within 200 km of this dive site.
Distances are approximate straight-line distances and may not reflect emergency travel time.
Hyperbaric & Diving Medicine Institute at Yoseftal Medical Center, Yoseftal Medical Center
24/7 ListedICU CapableEilat, Israel•Approx. 11 km straight-line
Hyperbaric & Diving Medicine Institute at Yoseftal Medical Center, Yoseftal Medical Center
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Marine Life at First BAY North
Entering the water, divers are immediately met with schooling reef fish and vibrant fire corals that characterize the shallower areas. As you explore, octopi, squid, lionfish, and various grouper species are frequently observed. The reef hosts beautiful hard and soft corals, forming a backdrop for schools of sergeant majors, parrotfish, and butterflyfish. Blue-spotted stingrays and moray eels are common inhabitants. Macro enthusiasts will appreciate sightings of nudibranchs, shrimp, and pipefish, while occasional turtles and reef squid add to the site's rich biodiversity.
Dive Sites Near First BAY North
View all dive sites in JordanDiscover more underwater gems in this area.
Dive Centers Near First BAY North
Working Hours
Today: 08:00 - 19:00
Nemo Dive Center
Aqaba Bedouin Dive / Captain Mahmmod Awartani
Aboodfreediver
Frogman Divers
Diving Eilat Vadim
Dive With Hamad Diving Center
Deep Blue Dive Center
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
Search Flights
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum depth at First Bay North?
A maximum depth of 30 meters (100 feet) is reachable at First Bay North. The reef begins in very shallow water, providing a wide range of depths suitable for various dive plans.
Is First Bay North suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, First Bay North is highly suitable for all levels, from beginner to advanced. Its calm, protected environment and easy shore access make it an ideal location for PADI Open Water courses and introductory dives.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Divers frequently encounter schooling reef fish, octopi, squid, lionfish, and groupers. You'll also see blue-spotted stingrays, moray eels, and diverse hard and soft corals. Macro life, including nudibranchs, shrimp, and pipefish, is present, with occasional sightings of turtles and reef squid.
What are the typical visibility conditions?
Visibility at First Bay North is consistently very good, typically ranging from 15 m to 30 m. Such excellent clarity enhances the experience for photography and general reef exploration.
Is shore access available, or is it boat only?
Both shore and boat access are available at First Bay North. This flexibility contributes to the site's popularity, making it convenient for various dive operations and individual divers.
Can I snorkel at First Bay North?
Yes, snorkeling is highly recommended. Shallow fringing reefs, vibrant coral gardens, and clear waters provide an excellent experience for snorkelers to explore the marine environment close to the surface.
Are there any specific navigational features at the site?
A distinct, long, narrow pinnacle at 15 meters depth serves as a useful natural navigation aid, especially for divers approaching the site from the shore. Following the general contour of the reef also provides straightforward orientation.
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First BAY North
Conditions are Good
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near First BAY North show 31° air, 25° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 33 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.